Cherry is found in the Eastern half of the United States, from the plains to the Atlantic Ocean and from the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico.
The Tree:
The tree reaches a height of 100 ft (30 m), with a diameter of 4 to 5 ft (1.2 to 1.5 m). It is shrubby under poor growth conditions and at the Northern limit of its range. It does best on the rich, moist soil of the Appalachians.
General Wood Characteristics:
The sapwood is light yellow, while the heartwood is brownish with a greenish tinge, darkening upon exposure to a deep reddish brown with a golden luster. The wood has a mild, aromatic scent, but no characteristic taste. It is of medium density, firm, and strong, with a fine, uniform texture. The grain is generally straight.
Hardness (Janka):
950 pounds (i.e. 26% softer than Northern red oak).
Dimensional stability:
Above average (i.e. 33% more stable than Northern red oak).
Durability:
Strong, moderately hard; excellent shock resistance.
Variations within species and grades:
Significant color variation between boards.
Comments:
* Color variation: light-sensitive; strong color change upon exposure to intense light.
* color change will disappear within a few months
* Indentation: indentation marks, scratches, or imperfections are more obvious due to cherry's density (closed grain) and hardness, compare to oak and ash. To minimize the indentation appearance, use a Satin (low gloss) finish.
